Before the onset of the pandemic, we embarked on a on a thrilling camping adventure at the breathtaking Wahrew river in Sohbar village which is around 70ish km from the capital city Shillong. This memorable trip remains etched in my mind as a precious pre-pandemic experience. The world was different then, free from the constraints and uncertainties that would soon follow. Tucked away in the heart of nature, this hidden gem in Meghalaya, India, offered a picturesque setting that promised a memorable experience. Little did we know that it would become an unforgettable journey filled with awe-inspiring landscapes, exciting news, and the bliss of connecting with the great outdoors.
The drive was peaceful, my friends and I were filled with excitement and anticipation. Arriving at our destination under the cover of darkness, we parked our vehicle and embarked on a challenging trek upstream to our campsite. With only the faint glow of our flashlights, we carefully navigated a riverbed filled with stones, determined to reach the other side where our campsite awaited. As it was winter, the river was dry and it was evident that this location was inaccessible to any kind of vehicle, adding to the sense of seclusion and tranquility that awaited us at the campsite. The campsite was overseen by a diligent team of two individuals who warmly guided us to our assigned tent.
However, as luck would have it, our arrival in the late evening coincided with a persistent rain shower. Undeterred by the weather, we sought refuge in the canopy that had been thoughtfully arranged by the campsite owners. Despite the rain, our spirits remained high, and we embraced the opportunity to revel in the magic of nature's embrace.
As the night progressed, the rain gradually subsided, allowing us to venture outside the canopy. At that very moment, a moment of pure joy and excitement added an unforgettable dimension to our experience. As we were reveling in the wonders of nature, we received news that our nephew had been born, bringing forth a wave of jubilation that echoed through the campsite. Thoughts of the tiny bundle of joy entering the world intertwined with the beauty of our surroundings, creating a profound sense of connection between the miracle of life and the splendor of nature. The news arrived, and cheers erupted, mingling with the rustling of leaves and the gentle murmurs of the river. We couldn't contain our excitement, our hearts bursting with happiness as we shared the joyous tidings with one another.
Gathering around a crackling campfire, we barbequed chicken, cooked food, shared laughter, stories, heartfelt conversations and indulging in the moment that became symbols of our cherished memories. The tantalizing aroma of the barbecued food and the sound of our joyous laughter merged harmoniously, echoing through the serene night. The dancing flames under the starlit sky illuminated our surroundings, casting a warm glow that enveloped us in a sense of camaraderie and adventure. Though we couldn't see the surroundings clearly, the distant sound of flowing water and the rustling of leaves hinted at the magic that awaited us.
As fatigue from the day's journey began to take hold, we retired to our tents, seeking respite in the embrace of sleep.
When the first rays of dawn pierced through the trees, we emerged from our tents with anticipation in our hearts. Stepping out into the morning light, we were instantly greeted by a breathtaking revelation.
The Wahrew River in Sohbar, which had been concealed in darkness the previous evening, unveiled its splendor before our eyes. The river flowed with grace, its crystal-clear waters reflecting the golden hues of the rising sun. The rain had breathed new life into the surroundings, as if nature itself had been invigorated by the downpour. Lush green foliage framed the riverbanks, creating a vivid contrast against the deep blue sky. It was as if nature had unveiled a masterpiece, just for us to witness.
Overwhelmed by the beauty that surrounded us, we stood in awe, completely captivated by the serene landscape. The stillness of the morning air allowed us to fully absorb the sights and sounds of nature's symphony. The melodic chirping of birds, the gentle rustle of leaves, and the rhythmic flow of the river created a harmonious ambiance that stirred our souls.
With a newfound appreciation for life's miracles, we explored the beauty of Wahrew River, Sohbar with an extra spring in our steps. Every sight, every sound, seemed to be amplified, as if nature itself joined us in celebrating the birth of a new soul. We ventured towards the Sohbar River, eager to immerse ourselves in its beauty. The water flowed gracefully, its surface reflecting the azure sky above. We dipped our feet in the refreshing river, feeling the gentle caress of its currents against our skin. The tranquility of the surroundings enveloped us, inviting a sense of peace and serenity.
As the day progressed, we continued to bask in the beauty of Sohbar River, spent the afternoon swimming, kayaking and splashing in the cool, clear waters . The river offered a perfect respite from the heat, and we enjoyed the thrill of floating downstream, carried by the gentle current.
Once we had relished the refreshing waters of the clear river, we made our way to our tent where a delectable breakfast (Maggi :D) awaited us, graciously served by the campsite owners. Fueling ourselves with a satisfying meal, we seized the opportunity to capture countless memories through the lens of our cameras before preparing to embark on our journey back home.
This camping excursion engraved its essence into my very soul, leaving an indelible mark upon my memories. It seamlessly merged the awe-inspiring magnificence of nature with the celebration of life's significant milestones. It reminded us that amidst the vastness of the world, the arrival of a newborn brings a sense of unity, love, and hope that transcends boundaries and connects us all. Moreover, this journey was not solely about traversing the trails and delving into nature's mysteries. It became an expedition of self-discovery, forging profound connections with both the natural world and the dear friends who accompanied me.
The experience served as a gentle reminder that life's most precious moments often manifest in the most unexpected places. It taught me the power of embracing the unpredictability of nature. Despite the initial rain, our spirits remained undeterred, and we were rewarded with a serene morning of breathtaking beauty. It reinforced the notion that the most cherished memories often sprout from unforeseen circumstances, and the key lies in embracing them with open arms. If there's one thing I'll always carry with me from this camping adventure, it's the realization that nature's beauty shines even brighter after the rain.
Location & Things to do:
Location- Wahrew River, Sohbar Village, East Khasi Hills District
Distance- 70 km ish from Shillong
Nearest town- Cheerapunji 12 km
Activities- Camping, kayaking/boating, fishing, trekking, hiking, river walks, nature walks, leisure time, photography,etc
Tips- Secure your tent in advance through a reputable adventure agency specializing in camping and adventure services.
Fun Fact- The 169 m long Wahrew Arch Bridge, Sohbar Village is India's longest road arch bridge.